Out of the many reasons why men choose to play with women's emotions, most of them are targeted at acquiring a prize, a sense of self-worth, or the admiration of others. Validation is usually connected to women, but you'll be surprised to find out that it is also an issue with men.
If a guy is playing with your feelings, you are emotionally involved with him, but he is not emotionally involved with you. In this situation, he doesn't want the same thing you want out of the relationship, but he is not honest about his intentions and instead is stringing you on.
Men who feel entitled to a woman's time and attention often play games to get it. This entitlement is rooted in a belief that he should always come first. He may use mind games to manipulate you into doing what he thinks he deserves or make you feel bad if you don't give him what he wants.
If he really likes you, then he'll find no need to talk to other people in a flirtatious way. Sure, he can still talk to them and he doesn't have to ignore everyone but you, but if you can tell from the way he talks to other people that he wants more from them than just friendship, then he may be playing you.
When a guy runs hot and cold on you, it's highly likely that he's insecure. He is blowing hot when he's feeling strong emotions about you. After the first few months of dating, he begins to panic. He gets anxious that you don't like him as much as he does.
Always speak up and assertively communicate your boundaries and expectations to the person trying to shame you. Deep down, you can also reframe the shame by reminding yourself that the person is trying to manipulate you and that their words or actions are not a reflection of you as a person.
To build emotional attraction with a man, be an active listener, share personal experiences, and show affection using his love language. A man feels emotionally attracted to someone when he feels understood and loved for his true self, so don't be afraid to be vulnerable—it might encourage him to open up to you.
Men pull away because of their own fear.
A man might fear getting hurt, making the wrong choice, or being overwhelmed by his own emotions. Even if they think their partner may be “the one,” they may still feel the need to create some distance. This is definitely not a symptom all men experience in falling in love.
So when someone plays with your heart, the best thing you can do it ignore him. Whatever he does, don't let him see that it has an effect on you and don't make him think that it is only making you want him more.
You know that he is catching feelings for you if he is constantly asking you questions and actually listening to what you have to say. He just loves learning more about you and what makes you tick. And what's more, he remembers every little detail you mutter.
Men who are attracted to you might even engage in more touch. If a man actively tries to touch you during your interaction, it may mean he wants to get closer to you or close the distance between you two.
He may have detected that you're interested in more than just hooking up, and he's trying to back away slowly. His sudden lack of interest could signal he wants to end things, or that he wants to keep you at a distance. Either way, if he's not interested in more than sex, and you are, it's probably not a good match.
One of the obvious reasons why a guy may ignore or act disinterested in you is because he feels you are too good for him. He lacks the confidence to approach you or share his feelings with you, fearing you might reject him. He feels that sharing his true feelings might ruin your friendship with him.
Although players are drawn to all kinds of women, there are certain characteristics they are majorly drawn to: Women who are desperate to have a man to call theirs top the list. Do not confuse this with asking a man out. Some men find women who ask them out bold and attractive.
They make excuses
This is one of the most prominent signs that indicates you are a second choice. Your partner or friends give excuses why they can't meet up, visit you or even spend time with you. It is an indication that plans with you can wait while they concentrate on something or someone else.
A man who loves you will be open and honest about his feelings. If he is not forthcoming with his emotions or doesn't seem to be emotionally invested in the relationship, it could be a sign that he is pretending to love you.